Meet Laura Rossin Van Zandt, New York Delta

Nonprofit leader and former executive director of REACH Beyond Domestic Violence, policy advocate and community college instructor dedicated to equity and empowerment.

Pi Beta Phi recognizes New York Delta Laura Rossin Van Zandt with the 2024 Carolyn Helman Lichtenberg Crest Award for her efforts in professional achievement.  

How has your involvement with Pi Beta Phi influenced or shaped your approach to leadership? 
Joining Pi Phi and being involved in leadership at Cornell University made a lot of sense to me. I was with women whom I respected and trusted. We showed up for one another and worked side by side when we were doing something for the community. I saw people leading with authenticity and confidence. 

What advice would you give to other Pi Phis who aspire to make a positive impact in their professional career?   
Authenticity matters. In each role I have had, I have been more successful when I am clear about my role and my skills, and when I have colleagues who are also authentic in their efforts. I hope everyone can have a job where they feel like they are part of something that matters. When I worked in financial services, I knew I was part of helping folks plan for sending their kids to college or retiring in comfort. When I made the move to a nonprofit doing community-based work, I faced new challenges. Making a positive impact is important and very satisfying. At the same time, it is essential to take care of yourself, no matter your work. We can't help others if we don't take care of ourselves. Make sure you find time for what fills your cup so you have something to offer to others.  

In what ways do you believe your experiences as a Pi Phi have uniquely prepared you for your professional role?   
I am grateful to my sisters, who are my dearest friends and who have cheered me on during good times and hard times. Showing up for one another, and developing skills to address disagreements, motivate others and tell our story, these are all skills that were nurtured during college and since then. I have watched so many of my sisters excel on their path, and I continue to learn from them every day.  

What motivates and inspires you to continue your efforts in your career? 
My motivation during my two decades leading REACH Beyond Domestic Violence came from both my colleagues and their devotion to fostering healthy relationships and from the families I met along the way. Change doesn't happen quickly, whether in society or in our own lives, and the persistence I witnessed over the years still inspires me.  

What do you love most about your work?
I loved working with my colleagues at REACH, and I am getting to know the incredible people I work with now at the community college. The students I have met so far have been curious, opinionated, thoughtful and bold, everything a learner should be. They were patient with me as a new instructor and taught me so much. I am excited to work with more students this fall! Learning is what drives me, so it is a good fit.

What is something you wish you would have known sooner in life?
I wish I could have known what not to worry about the superficial stuff.  

How do you measure personal success?
I try not to think about measuring success. I believe in lifelong growth and learning. I believe in friendship, family, community, and care. Success is finding all of that and appreciating it. 

"Pi Beta Phi has taught me..."
About lifelong friendships and about the strength and wisdom of so many women.   

  

Published September 2, 2025